Exam stress – top tips and events

As December exams approach - it’s important to take time out to think about ways you can make this period as stress free as possible.

There are even more free events on campus this year, and plenty of tips and useful resources online to help you.

Stress busting events

Therapets are back!

Therapy dogs will be back on campus on Friday 5 and Tuesday 9 December in the Chaplaincy Centre. Tickets for these popular pets will be available from two days before each event on the EUSA website.

Sports Union Stress Busters

Everyone is welcome at these fun and free events designed to fight stress. They include cardio tennis, boxing, archery, karate and laughter yoga. The Sports Union will also be handing out festive freebies including t-shirts and homemade mince pies.

Sing Away Your Stress

The University Carol Service will take place on Sunday 7 Dec, from 7-8.30pm in the McEwan Hall. Seats fill up quickly, so we recommend arriving when the doors open at 6pm.

Relax at the Chaplaincy

The Chaplaincy runs weekly Tai Chi, prayer, mindfulness and social events throughout the year:

Top tips and resources

Pace yourself

Set realistic goals as you revise - reward yourself when you meet these targets and don’t stress about an unobtainable level of perfection. The Institute for Academics Development webpages contain more information on revision and exam techniques:

Try the ‘stop’ technique

If you find yourself beginning to panic at any point during revision time or even during an exam, there are various relaxation techniques that will help. See page 8 of this guide for details of the ‘stop’ technique:

Find your own space

Take a walk along the Crags, explore a gallery or museum or pop to the Christmas markets for a quick escape from revision.

Be prepared

Avoid any last minute panics by making sure you know exactly where your exams are this year. Check your timetable and view exam FAQs on the main Examinations webpages:

Step by step guide to exam success

For more information on dealing with exam stress and issues such as procrastination and negative thoughts - see the Student Counselling Service guide to exam success: